Nebbiolo - The King of Piedmont in Marianello Wines
Nebbiolo is one of Italy's most revered grape varieties, known for its bold character, complex aromas, and remarkable aging potential. In our Marianello collection, we’ve captured the spirit of this noble varietal, blending Italy’s centuries-old traditions with the unique terroir of Santa Ynez Valley. While Nebbiolo is most famously grown in the Barolo and Barbaresco regions of Piedmont, we’ve crafted a version that reflects the best of both worlds—an elegant, approachable wine with the depth and complexity that defines this iconic grape.
Nebbiolo – A Grape of Many Faces
Nebbiolo is often hailed as the king of Piedmont, and it’s no surprise given its ability to produce wines of great distinction. The grape thrives in the cooler, foggy hills of northern Italy, where its high acidity and tannin structure help it to age beautifully. Nebbiolo is a true chameleon, with its expression shifting depending on where it's grown and how it’s made.
Barolo: Known as the “King of Nebbiolo,” Barolo is rich, tannic, and powerful, often requiring many years of aging to reach its peak. Wines from this region are deeply complex, with notes of roses, cherries, and earthy, tar-like undertones. Top producers like Giacomo Conterno and Bartolo Mascarello have become icons for creating some of the finest examples of Barolo.
Barbaresco: Known as the “Queen of Nebbiolo,” Barbaresco is more approachable than Barolo but still deeply expressive of the grape’s potential. These wines tend to be slightly lighter and more elegant, with floral aromas and vibrant red fruit. Notable producers include Angelo Gaja and Ceretto, who have earned global acclaim for their refined expressions of Nebbiolo.
Langhe Nebbiolo: A more accessible expression of Nebbiolo, Langhe Nebbiolo comes from younger vines or fruit that doesn't meet the strict standards for Barolo or Barbaresco. These wines are fresher and lighter but still retain the key characteristics of Nebbiolo, with bright fruit and a more immediate drinkability.
Aging Nebbiolo – The Evolution of Complexity
Nebbiolo’s aging potential is one of its defining characteristics. The grape’s high acidity and tannin structure make it a natural for aging, and wines from Barolo or Barbaresco can continue to evolve for decades. However, the aging process varies depending on region and style:
Barolo: Wines from this prestigious region are often aged for a minimum of 38 months, with many producers opting for longer aging in large oak casks. This extended aging process softens the tannins and brings out the wine’s complex aromas of roses, earth, and fruit.
Barbaresco: Typically aged for around 24 months, Barbaresco is usually made using a mix of stainless steel and smaller oak barrels. This results in a wine that is more immediately approachable but still retains the essential structure and complexity of Nebbiolo.
Langhe Nebbiolo: With a shorter aging period, typically in stainless steel or large oak barrels, Langhe Nebbiolo is more vibrant and youthful, offering a lighter, fresher version of the grape. It’s a great introduction to Nebbiolo and can be enjoyed earlier, though still capable of developing further with time.
The Terroir of Santa Ynez – Marianello’s Nebbiolo
Our Marianello Nebbiolo comes from the cool, coastal-influenced Santa Ynez Valley, where the climate provides the ideal conditions for growing this temperamental grape. The valley's foggy mornings and sun-filled afternoons mirror the conditions of Piedmont’s finest growing regions, allowing our Nebbiolo to ripen slowly, preserving the natural acidity and developing the distinctive flavors that make this wine so special.
In crafting our Marianello Nebbiolo, we aim to strike a balance between the elegant structure of classic Piedmont Nebbiolos and the vibrant, fruit-forward profile that Santa Ynez terroir imparts. The result is a wine that is both sophisticated and approachable, with layers of aromas including rose petals, ripe cherries, and hints of earthy tobacco.
Pairing Marianello Nebbiolo
Nebbiolo’s firm tannins and high acidity make it a perfect match for rich, flavorful foods. It pairs beautifully with hearty dishes that can stand up to its complexity and structure. Here are a few pairing ideas to elevate your Marianello Nebbiolo experience:
Pasta with truffles: The earthy aromas of truffles and the savory richness of pasta are a classic pairing with Nebbiolo, complementing the wine’s floral and earthy notes.
Roasted meats: Nebbiolo’s tannins shine with roasted meats like lamb or duck, where the rich flavors can balance the wine’s acidity and structure.
Aged cheeses: The acidity in Nebbiolo cuts through the richness of aged cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino, creating a harmonious pairing.
Why Marianello Nebbiolo Is Special
What sets our Marianello Nebbiolo apart is how it captures the best qualities of both its Italian roots and the exceptional terroir of Santa Ynez. While staying true to the rich history of Nebbiolo, our version offers a more approachable and vibrant expression, making it a perfect wine for both newcomers and connoisseurs alike. Whether enjoyed in its youth or aged for a few years, this wine continues to evolve, offering new layers of complexity with every sip.
If you’re a fan of Piedmont wines, or simply someone who appreciates a fine, age-worthy red, our Marianello Nebbiolo is sure to captivate. Visit us at our tasting room in Solvang or explore our online store to experience the exceptional craftsmanship that goes into every bottle.